E-mail scams using stimulus program, IRS widening

A widening e-mail scam that uses the promise of federal stimulus bill money for those who enter their credit card information into a fraudulent Web site is being reported by the International Trademark Association.

The phishing e-mail is accompanied by an Internal Revenue Service logo and pictures of the U.S. president and vice president. The e-mail claims that recipients can claim their portion of economic stimulus spending programs. Recipients then are instructed to click a link and enter personal financial information into a counterfeit website.

Scammers often request small fees for processing, which then gives them access to credit card numbers. For its part, the IRS says its agency is used by multiple scammers constantly, especially during tax season. The tax agency never seeks personal financial information by e-mail. The IRS wants phishing e-mails forwarded to them at: phishing@irs.gov.